Savory Pizza Cake in No Time

The pizza cake combines the popular flavors of a classic pizza with the practical form of a cake. This savory creation is quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for social occasions or as an uncomplicated snack.

When I prepared this pizza cake for a family celebration for the first time, it immediately became the star of the buffet. The combination of spicy salami, juicy ham, and aromatic cheese in a fluffy dough delighted all guests – from toddlers to grandmothers.

Flavor Carriers

• Salami and ham: Provide the hearty, spicy component and the typical pizza character
• Mushrooms: Give a pleasant texture and an earthy flavor
• Cheese mixture: The combination of Gouda and Parmesan ensures a perfect balance between creaminess and savory depth
• Italian herbs: Give the cake the characteristic pizza aroma

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Detailed Preparation

Prepare oven and pan:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) conventional heat or 160°C (320°F) fan, so it has the optimal temperature when the dough is ready. Line the bottom of a 26 cm (10 inch) springform pan with parchment paper – best to cut the paper so it fits exactly in the form. Grease the edge of the springform pan well with butter so the finished cake will release easily later. It's particularly important to also grease the connection point between bottom and edge.

Perfectly prepare ingredients:

Cut the salami and cooked ham into uniform, small cubes of about 0.5 cm (¼ inch). Pieces that are too large would sink into the cake later. Thoroughly clean the mushrooms with a soft brush or paper towel to remove any dirt – don't wash them, as they would absorb too much liquid. Cut the cleaned mushrooms into fine cubes, similar in size to the meat cubes. Freshly grate the Gouda and Parmesan – pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting behavior.

Prepare dough:

In a large mixing bowl, mix the milk, eggs, flour, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper with a hand mixer or a food processor into a smooth, lump-free dough. Mix for about 2-3 minutes on medium speed until the dough has a uniform, slightly liquid consistency. Carefully fold in the grated Gouda, Parmesan, and the prepared cubes of salami, ham, and mushrooms with a cooking spoon or spatula. Don't stir too long, just enough so that all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Baking:

Pour the finished mixture evenly into the prepared springform pan and smooth with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Place the form on the middle rack in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the surface is golden yellow and feels firm. To make sure the cake is baked through, after about 35 minutes you can do the stick test: A wooden skewer or toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.

Serving:

Remove the finished pizza cake from the oven and let it steam off for about 5 minutes in the form on a cake rack. Carefully run a sharp knife or spatula along the edge of the form to ensure the cake releases well. Carefully open and remove the springform ring. Leave the pizza cake on the springform base or slide onto a serving plate. Cut into pieces and serve warm or cold.

I've found that the pizza cake is particularly well received when I put it back in the oven for about 10 minutes at 150°C (300°F) just before serving, so it's slightly warm and the cheese is soft again. A fresh green salad makes an excellent side dish to complement the hearty taste experience.

Freedom of Combination

This pizza cake is a true chameleon among savory baked goods. The basic recipe offers countless possibilities for creative variations, depending on personal taste or available ingredients. From classic pizza combinations like tuna and onions to vegetarian versions with zucchini, bell peppers, and feta – there are no limits to the imagination. This versatility also makes the cake perfect for families with different preferences, as it can easily be prepared in different variations.

Perfect Occasions

The pizza cake is suitable for various occasions:

• As a highlight at children's birthdays, as it can be prepared in advance
• As a practical snack for picnics or outings, as it doesn't drip
• As an uncomplicated dinner on hectic days
• As a contribution to potluck parties, as it's still delicious when lukewarm

Creative Variations

With small changes, you can modify the basic recipe in many ways:

• Mediterranean variant with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta
• Vegetarian option with zucchini, bell peppers, and corn
• Rustic version with bacon, onions, and mountain cheese
• For children with cooked ham and mild Gouda-mozzarella mixture

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Durability and Storage

The pizza cake, well wrapped in the refrigerator, keeps for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place individual pieces in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes or briefly warm in the microwave. The cake is also excellent for freezing. Wrap the pieces individually in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, store the pieces in the refrigerator overnight and briefly warm in the oven before eating.

After many variations of this recipe, I can say that the pizza cake is a true all-rounder that impresses with its simplicity and versatility. It's a perfect example that savory baking doesn't have to be complicated and can still deliver impressive results. Try the basic recipe and then let your creativity run free – you'll be surprised how many delicious variations are possible!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other ingredients?

Of course! You can replace the salami with chorizo, the ham with bacon, or the mushrooms with bell peppers, zucchini or olives. The main thing is that the ingredients are cut into small cubes.

→ Can I bake the pizza cake in advance?

Yes, you can easily bake it the day before. Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps for 2-3 days and tastes very good cold as well.

→ Why does my cake stick to the pan?

The cheese can make the cake stick to the edges. Therefore, generously grease the edges and carefully loosen the cake with a knife before opening the springform pan.

→ Is the pizza cake suitable for children?

Absolutely! Children love this cake. For children's birthdays, you can also bake it in muffin tins - then the baking time is reduced to about 20-25 minutes.

→ Can I freeze the pizza cake?

Yes, you can freeze it in portions. To thaw, simply place in the refrigerator overnight and then briefly warm in the oven or microwave if desired.

→ Which cheese works best?

Gouda and Parmesan make a good mix, but you can also use mozzarella, cheddar or a pizza cheese mix. The main thing is that the cheese melts well.